Black joy, representation, and holiday spirit were in full swing when Surge Reproductive Justice hosted their annual Black Santa event last week, bringing together Black families for a fun-filled day of community at the Original Selfie Museum in Seattle. The event was an opportunity for Black families to gather, eat, and play, with free food, hot cocoa, and a chance to take a picture with a Black Santa. According to organizer Havika Fleming-Jones Surge’s goal was to create a free and accessible space for Black families to enjoy fresh experiences that make space for them specifically. 

A major component of the event were activation stations designed to engage the community on important issues. These stations presented community research on Black maternal health and access to healthcare, and invited participants to create Christmas bell decorations where they could write notes envisioning healthy births, aspirations in motherhood and parenthood, and a strong sense of community. This process is part of Surge's policy work, which involves convening the community to foster Black joy and gather input for policy, system changes, or anti-racist organizing efforts. 

As a Black feminist reproductive justice organization in Seattle led by Executive Director Jackie Vaughn, Surge utilizes the principles of Black feminism, emphasizing representation and the ability for marginalized people to see themselves in the work. Organizer Mariah Ashley-Emerson explained that Surge organizes alongside Black women and other underrepresented communities, focusing on building power and organizing through an anti-racist lens. The annual Black Santa event and its activation stations are critical in creating spaces of connection and care that align with Black feminist ideals, ultimately aiming to make community members feel welcome, centered, and empowered. 

Learn more about Surge Reproductive Justice at surgereprojustice.org and contact the team at info@surgenw.org or 3715 S. Hudson St. Suite 103 Seattle. 

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